When it comes to birthdays, the right music can make all the difference in creating a memorable and enjoyable celebration.
From classic tunes to modern hits, this ultimate collection of birthday songs has something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect party anthem or a sentimental ballad to serenade the birthday person, this playlist has got you covered.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the top birthday songs for every celebration!
Songs About Birthdays
Classic Birthday Songs
These are the classic songs that everyone knows and loves. They are simple, sweet, and sincere.
They are perfect for singing along with a cake and candles or sending a video message to someone far away.
Happy Birthday by Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder’s Happy Birthday is not only a classic birthday song, but it also played a significant role in the creation of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Its upbeat melody and catchy chorus make it a fantastic alternative to the traditional Happy Birthday tune.
Birthday by The Beatles
One of the most iconic birthday songs of all time, Birthday by The Beatles, is a timeless rock anthem that will get people of all ages dancing and singing along. Its infectious energy and catchy melody makes it a must-have addition to any birthday party playlist.
Some more songs include:
- Happy Birthday to You: Traditional
- Happy Birthday by Altered Images
- Happy Birthday by Kygo ft. John Legend
Modern Pop Birthday Songs
These are the songs that are guaranteed to make you smile and feel good. They are catchy, upbeat, and positive. They are perfect for dancing and having a blast with your friends and family.
Birthday by Katy Perry
Katy Perry’s Birthday is a fun and flirty pop song that will have everyone wishing it was their birthday every day. Its dance-inducing beat and memorable lyrics make it a perfect addition to any birthday celebration.
Birthday Cake by Rihanna
While not entirely about a birthday cake, Rihanna’s Birthday Cake has a hypnotic beat that will get everyone on their feet and clapping along. Its catchy and suggestive lyrics make it a great choice for adult birthday parties.
These songs create a festive and cheerful atmosphere. They are ideal for background music during dinner or a cocktail party. They are also great for setting the tone for a surprise party or a flash mob.
- Celebration by Kool & The Gang
- Don’t Stop The Party by Pitbull ft. TJR
- Party Rock Anthem by LMFAO ft. Lauren Bennett & GoonRock
- I Gotta Feeling by The Black Eyed Peas
- Wake Me Up by Avicii
Rap and Hip-Hop Birthday Songs
These are the rap songs that feature birthdays as a theme or reference. They are cool, clever, and confident. They are perfect for showing off your skills, your swagger, or adding some hip-hop to your party.
In Da Club by 50 Cent
No list of birthday songs would be complete without 50 Cents In Da Club. This iconic track spent nine weeks at No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot 100 and is still a party-starting favourite for birthday celebrations.
Birthday Song by 2 Chainz feat. Kanye West
2 Chainz and Kanye West’s collaboration, Birthday Song, is a rap anthem that encourages birthday indulgence and a little bit of greed. Its catchy beat and memorable lyrics make it a great choice for anyone looking to turn their birthday party up a notch.
Some more rap and hip-hop songs include:
- No Problem by Chance The Rapper ft. Lil Wayne & 2 Chainz
- Congratulations by Post Malone ft. Quavo
- God’s Plan by Drake
Sentimental Birthday Songs
Birthday by Destiny’s Child
When it’s time to slow things down during a birthday celebration, Destiny’s Child’s Birthday is the perfect choice. This romantic ballad from their debut album is ideal for showing your love and appreciation for the birthday person.
Happy Birthday by Sufjan Stevens
Sufjan Stevens’ Happy Birthday is a poetic and softly sung lullaby that serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of time. Its introspective lyrics and soothing melody make it a more reflective birthday celebration.
Some more sentimental birthday songs include:
- 22 by Taylor Swift
- Young Forever by Jay-Z ft. Mr. Hudson
Happy Birthday Songs for Adults
These are the songs that are more mature and sophisticated. They are sexy, sultry, and seductive. They are perfect for flirting and romance or adding spice to your party.
- Birthday Sex by Jeremih
- Cake By The Ocean by DNCE
- Crazy In Love by Beyoncé ft. Jay-Z
- Kiss Me More by Doja Cat ft. SZA
- Blurred Lines by Robin Thicke ft. T.I. & Pharrell Williams
Upbeat and Dance-Inducing Birthday Songs
These songs are guaranteed to make you smile and feel good. They are catchy, upbeat, and positive. They are perfect for dancing and having a blast with friends and family.
Birthday by Selena Gomez
Released around her 21st birthday, Selena Gomez’s Birthday is a high-energy party anthem that captures the excitement and joy of celebrating with friends. Its infectious beat will have everyone dancing and making unforgettable memories.
Happy Birthday by Kygo feat. John Legend
Kygo and John Legend’s collaboration, Happy Birthday, is a feel-good dance track that combines Legend’s powerful vocals with Kygo’s carefree beats. This song is the perfect addition to any pre-party playlist before a night of birthday celebrations.
Some more upbeat songs include:
- Happy by Pharrell Williams
- Can’t Stop The Feeling by Justin Timberlake
- Good As Hell by Lizzo
- You Make My Dreams by Hall & Oates
Humorous and Offbeat Birthday Songs
Happy Birthday by Weird Al Yankovic
For those who prefer a more unconventional approach to birthday celebrations, Weird Al Yankovic’s Happy Birthday is an excellent choice. This punk-rock rendition of the classic birthday song features a humorous list of everything that’s wrong with the world but wishes you a happy birthday anyway.
Older by They Might Be Giants
If you’re looking for a birthday song that embraces the inevitable passage of time, They Might Be Giants Older is a great choice. Its quirky lyrics and upbeat tune serve as a reminder that, as the song says, “You’re older than you’ve ever been, and now you’re even older.”
Rock and Alternative Birthday Songs
Birthday by Kings of Leon
Kings of Leon’s Birthday is a feel-good love song that will make you wish every day was your birthday. Its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics make it perfect for serenading your significant other on their special day.
Unhappy Birthday by The Smiths
In true Morrissey fashion, The Smiths’ Unhappy Birthday offers a more melancholic take on the traditional birthday song. Its introspective lyrics and moody melody make it an ideal choice for those who prefer a more sombre celebration.
Nostalgic Birthday Songs
Happy Birthday by New Kids On The Block
For a trip down memory lane, New Kids On The Block’s Happy Birthday is a must-have on your birthday playlist. Its slow-dance ballad style and heartfelt lyrics will evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth.
Birthday by The Sugarcubes
Before Björk embarked on her solo career, she was part of The Sugarcubes, whose song Birthday is a whimsical and slightly eerie celebration of a special day. Its unique sound and captivating lyrics make it a memorable addition to any birthday playlist.
International Birthday Songs
Birthday (English) by Anne-Marie
Anne-Marie lays out a birthday checklist that includes eating what you like, kissing who you like, and partying tonight. This upbeat song reminds us that if there’s one day a year to be selfish and forget your worries, it’s your birthday.
“Feliz Cumpleaños” (Spanish)
The Spanish version of Happy Birthday, Feliz Cumpleaños is a simple and heartfelt song that is perfect for celebrating with friends and family who speak Spanish. Its familiar melody and lyrics make it a great addition to any birthday celebration.
Iconic Birthday Moments in Music History
Marilyn Monroe – “Happy Birthday, Mr. President”
Perhaps one of the most famous birthday serenades in history, Marilyn Monroe’s sultry rendition of Happy Birthday for President John F. Kennedy remains an iconic moment in pop culture. While not a traditional birthday song, it’s a reminder of the power of music and its ability to create unforgettable memories.
The Ramones – Happy Birthday (as featured in The Simpsons)
Although only a short 15-second clip from The Simpsons, The Ramones’ punk rock version of Happy Birthday is a memorable and unique take on the classic song. It’s irreverent lyrics and energetic performance make it a fun addition to any birthday playlist.
No matter what your taste in music or preferred style of celebration, this ultimate collection of birthday songs has something for everyone. So, crank up the volume, gather your friends and family, and enjoy your special day with the perfect soundtrack!
